Upon reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such pieces delve into complex topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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